Caution in Speech

Lesson of Piety said that whoever performs Hajj in such a way that human beings are safe from his tongue and his hands, all of his past sins will be forgiven. (Tarikh Dimashq by Ibn Asakir, vol 29, p. 362). In the Qur’an, it is stated: “Hajj is in well-known months (Shawwal, Dhul-Qa’dah, Dhul-Hijjah). Whoever undertakes Hajj during these months, there should be no obscenity, nor wickedness, nor argument, nor quarrelling during Hajj.” (2:197) The pilgrimage is in the appointed months. Whoever intends to perform it during them must abstain from indecent speech, from all wicked conduct, and from quarrelling while on the pilgrimage. Whatever good you may do, God is aware of it. Make provision for yourselves—but surely, the best of all provision is Godconsciousness. Always be mindful of Me, you that are endowed with understanding. (2:197) These are the three main forms of causing harm through speech. A person may utter obscene words that distress others. They may refer to another person using derogatory language and attempt to disgrace them with inappropriate words. They may resort to arguments and harsh speech during conversations. All of these behaviours are strictly forbidden during Hajj so that one’s sensitivity to these issues is heightened. The aim is that when a person returns from the sacred journey of Hajj, the impact of this experience will ensure that their tongue is forever safeguarded against such behaviours.